TIMING is everything. As it turns out, it really does matter.
Yes, it matters what time to bring out the toothbrush in the morning.
We all brush our teeth twice a day and, when possible and ideally, after each and every meal. And that includes morning and evening.
And when you break the fast. Before and/or after. Some like it before, to get the evening taste out. Many do it after breakfast, to clean the teeth of the meal’s detritus. Others do it both ways.
So which way is best? It really depends on your inclination – and time.
For those in a hurry, brush your teeth before leaving home – before breakfast. If your are like many of us, who eat breakfast before getting out the door, do it after the morning meal.
If you ask me, do it after breakfast to rid the teeth of whatever food and liquid that have coated the enamel.
As you know, one main reason for brushing the teeth is to clean the enamel of acid that wreaks havoc on the protective coating of teeth. It is also to rid the teeth of bacteria that produces the sugars that may decay the enamel and dig the cavities.
Enamel is just as strong as the calcium in bone, one of the hardest structures in fact in the body. However, the bristles in toothbrush rub acidic foods into the porous enamel and can and do weaken the natural protection.
From here, it gets more interesting. The American Dental Association recommends waiting an hour before brushing after eating acidic foods and drinks like fruits and coffee.
Brushing your teeth right after consuming those foods and drinks may erode the enamel. That’s because brushing immediately after breakfast may spread acidic foods and liquids all over the enamel and weaken the protective cover.
Many Filipino breakfast staples do not do the tooth enamel any good: sugary pan de sal; peanut butter, coco jams and other bread spreads; calamansi and other sour juices like orange drinks; the vinegar that you dip your favorite tuyo and daing in.
For those on the go who don’t have the luxury of brushing soon after breakfast, gargle with plain water. It will flush out bacteria.
The same rule applies to coffee which is acidic too. Wait for an hour before brushing. That is because coffee is very acidic and can erode the enamel.
If you can help it, drink coffee just once a day. In the morning, after that delicious lunch or anytime. Just one, and not continuously drink delicious java which, we admit, simply can’t be refused by many people.
Still, limiting coffee intake significantly lessens the chances of staining your teeth. And weakening the enamel.
The same goes for calamansi and other citrus breakfast drinks, the acidity will weaken the enamel. Again, brush the teeth an hour after the morning meal so not to rub the acid into the enamel.
If you want to take away the after taste of citrus drinks and coffee, swish water around the mouth while waiting for the one-hour delay in brushing.
Now, technique is also everything. It is important to brush the teeth properly to prevent harming the gums and causing them to recede. Properly here means gently.
Do it gentle and simple.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim is the former Associate Dean of the UE College of Dentistry, former Dean of the College of Dentistry, National University, past president and honorary fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy, and honorary fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists. Honorary Life Member of Thai Association of Dental Implantology. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515./PN
